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Senior Abuse

The effects of abuse are far-reaching and often disastrous, sometimes even leading to death. The effects of abuse are both physical and mental. Many seniors will succumb to various forms of mental illness, especially depression, which is often associated with the various types of abuse. Abuse therefore has a considerable social and economic cost.

Different types of abuse

Financial abuse is often accompanied by blackmail and threats:

  • Theft of the person’s property
  • Misappropriation of funds
  • Fraudulent power of attorney
  • Phoney service contracts

People who are physically or sexually abused may be:

  • Pinched
  • Pushed
  • Treated harshly
  • Struck
  • Forced to perform sexual acts

Psychological abuse generally seeks to control people through:

  • Fear
  • Insecurity
  • Guilt
  • Humiliation
  • Isolation

Treating someone with neglect means:

  • Failing to provide for their essential needs
  • Depriving them of food
  • Depriving them of care
  • Depriving them of essential medication

What to do?

What to do if you are a victim?

  • Speak to someone you trust
  • Speak to your doctor or to a resource person at your CLSC (CSSS)

To confide in someone or ask for advice, you can call the numbers below:

  • Tel-Aînés 514 353-2463
  • Elder Abuse Helpline 514 489-2287

 

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, CALL 911.

What to do if you are a witness?

  • Speak to a care worker who can advise you
  • Speak to the victim alone and find out how he or she feels about the situation
  • Keep in regular touch with the victim until the situation is resolved

Find out more

Links and references about elder abuse

Association québécoise de défense des droits des personnes retraitées et préretraitées

Juripop

Crime Victims assistance Center 

Éducaloi – Seniors and Financial Fraud

Elder abuse awareness 

Fédération de l’Âge d’Or du Québec 

Research Chair on Mistreatment of Older Adults

Publications

Governmental Action Plan to Counter Elder Abuse (PDF - in french)

Municipal Action Plan for Seniors